Lipliner

It’s Monday, again and it couldn’t have been more apparent than when I put black, liquid liner on my eyebrows instead of my eyelids this morning. That was fun. But, what a Monday it’s been already! Miley and Liam have called it quits (Thank, God), we have a new Miss America, Nina Davuluri, Britney Spears released a new single affirmatively titled: Work B*tch, Burberry took the runway by storm at London Fashion Week, and sadly, 12 lives were taken at the DC Navy Yard (my thoughts and prayers go out to everyone affected). It’s definitely been an emotional roller coaster of a day, but aren’t Monday’s supposed to be “manic”?

Anyway, mid-eyeliner mistake, I was thinking about how many great drugstore products that I incorporate into my everyday routine. Not every item you put on your body needs to break the bank to be effective. In fact, there are a number of products that are under $10 that are every bit as good as those in the $50+ range. Lets get started!

1. Freeman Face Masks

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Don’t have enough time or money for a facial? I feel ya, sister. Meet a few of your new best friends. Freeman masks are so cheap ($2-$5) and so good. I honestly don’t know how I hadn’t come across these sooner in life. It’s borderline depressing. There are at least 7 different formulas to help target different problem areas such as dryness, dullness, acne, and inflammation. Bonus: They smell amazing AND you can purchase individual one-time use pouches to test them out before committing to a large tube – win! Go out and buy these now.

2. Maybelline Colossal Volum’ Express Mascara

If you’re anything like me, you could live off of food, water, and a good mascara. If volume is what you’re after, this baby definitely has it. I can’t substantiate any of Maybelline’s claims that it increases lash volume by 9x (…because who measures that), but I can tell you, that my lashes are certainly full and flirty. Don’t get me wrong, I love a nice designer mascara as much as the next beauty blogger, but for $7.99, you really can’t go wrong! Purchase the blackest black for the most dramatic, glam look, and you’ll be well on your way to handing out dishes of lash envy.

3. Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick

Let’s face it, lip color can really make or break a look. It can be the difference between looking frumpy and looking fab, so why not experiment with different hues to see what looks best with your complexion. Obviously, this isn’t always feasible when we’re talking $35+ “splurge-sticks,” so here’s where these little gems come in handy. I personally think Revlon did a great job on these. They go on smooth, the color pay-off is great, they have decent packaging, and they are only $8.99. Bonus: They are moisturizing and have a bit of a sheen so if you’ve forgotten lipstick’s favorite friends, lip balm and lip gloss, you’re in luck!

4. Wet ‘n Wild Eyeliner/Eyebrow Pencil

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I kid you not, these are a saving grace if you suddenly run out of your favorite pencil. For only $1, you really can’t beat ’em. I actually was surprised at the ease of application and the “smudge-ability” of the product. Definitely worth it if you aren’t up for spending a small fortune on the Dior and Lancome’s of the makeup world. Bonus: They actually last – how many $1 things can you say that about!?

5. Essie Nail Polish

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I have an unhealthy small obsession with this $8 polish. If you’ve read my previous posts, you’ve heard about the production that is painting my nails. So, for me, all the more reason to find a great brand, with beautiful colors, fun names (they do matter…), and staying power. Also, the vibrancy of the hues is readily apparent in the bottle – in other words, the what you see is what you get. Bonus: The colors are “creamy” and you don’t need more than 2 coats (sometimes even 1!) for your nails to look like you just stepped out of the salon.

I know, I know… it’s technically “Worth-It Wednesday” and I was going to review a new foundation I’ve been using, but I think I need a little more time to test it out. Soooo, instead, I’ve put together a list of 6 items found around your home that you may have never thought to use when getting ready. I didn’t invent these genius ideas, but I have used them! Here it goes!

1. Q-Tips

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No surprise, here. This little double-sided cotton swab is just the tool you need to correct any makeup application flub. Extend that cat-eye liner a little too far? Get a case of the “shakey hands” when applying lipstick and liner? No problem, this little guy is here to save the day. I like to dampen one end just enough for it to be able to glide across my skin, but not wet enough that it will ruin the rest of my makeup – can’t fix one problem and create another… that’s just silly! Can’t get enough? Well, you can also use Q-Tips to correct any mistakes during those at-home manicures. Simply dip one end into nail polish remover, squeeze out the excess, and run it along any color creeping onto your skin. Bonus: They are also great eyeliner “smudgers” for that seductive, smokey-eye!

2. Coffee Grinds

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Now your morning coffee can pack a double punch. If you’re anything like me, a nice hot cup of joe is vital in order to even think about having a productive day. Caffeine, in general, gives your body that boost of energy it needs to get off the couch be a functioning member of society. Now, you can use those same grinds to give your face and body a rejuvenated look. Just mix the grinds with moisturizing lotion or olive oil and rub vigorously over face, neck, and body if you’re feeling adventurous (just keep in mind that this can be pretty messy…). Wash off your scrub and revel in your smooth, supple skin! Sidenote: There is also talk about this being a cellulite fighter…I can’t attest to any claims, but how great would that be!?

3. Eggs

Image Cred: thekitchn.com

Again, our mornings can seriously have a big impact on the rest of our day, so while you’re digesting from that delicious omelet, take a couple more eggs (2 should do, 3 if you have longer hair), beat them together in a small bowl and then apply this liquid to your hair in the shower. Leave in for 3-5 minutes and rinse usingluke warm water. Don’t take that last part lightly, unless of course you’re looking for seconds and want pieces of cooked egg in your hair. That’s cool, too. This should leave your hair feeling soft and looking shiny – breakfast really is the most important meal of the day!

4. Toothpaste

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You brush your teeth because you’re a fresh-breathed, good hygiened-person. Congrats. Anddd, you may have also used it from time to time to spot treat some stubborn pimples. But, have you ever used it on your nails? Sometimes our nails yellow for a variety of reasons – health, diet, old green nail polish that you’ve been too lazy to remove for 3 months – these are the usual culprits. Toothpaste can be a saving grace for these folks – it’s cheap and easy to do. Brush a small amount onto your nails and watch the stains diminish. You can also add a few drops of lemon juice (which has intense lightening power all on its own) for an extra boost. This may be self-explainitory, but please don’t use the same toothbrush you’re using in your mouth on your nails. That’s…wrong.

5. Scotch Tape

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This one is going to seem a little weird. But, it works. So, I guess it’s just awesome. Dry skin on your lips? Place a piece of scotch tape on those babies and press. Then gently pull the piece off and look at all that pesky dead skin with pride – flakey lips can be an ugly battle, but you’ve won! Bonus: You can also use it to make some pretty spectacular nail art.

6. Pam Cooking Spray – Original

This is just ingenious. Painting my nails is legitimately a process for me. I have to find the perfect block of time to do them so it’s not interfering with 1. dish washing, 2. dog walking, feeding, playing… really anything to do with my dog, and 3. bed time (there is seriously nothing worse than waking up with bed sheet imprints and lint on your freshly painted nails). Solution? Pam Cooking Spray can act as a quick drying agent so that you can get back living a smudge-free life!